Frequent Measles Outbreaks Pose Risks to Infants and Toddlers – Vietnam and the Philippines Are Truly “Troublesome”

▲The Philippines and Vietnam have reported frequent measles outbreaks. The Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation reminds travelers to stay vigilant. (Photo / Provided by local residents)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that measles outbreaks continue in Vietnam and the Philippines. Hanoi, Vietnam has seen another measles outbreak, and cases of measles infections among individuals returning from the Philippines have also been reported in countries including Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Japan, along with subsequent outbreaks.

Vietnam and the Philippines are countries that Taiwanese

According to reports, from December 2013 to early February 2014, Hanoi in northern Vietnam has recorded a total of 40 measles cases. Other provinces and cities across the country, including northern provinces such as Yen Bai and Lao Cai, northwestern Sơn La Province, and southern Ho Chi Minh City, have also reported measles cases. Meanwhile, the measles outbreak in the Philippines continues, with the metropolitan area of the capital Manila, the Calabarzon region in the south, and the Central Luzon region remaining the most severely affected.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that remains infectious four days before and after the onset of the rash. It can easily enter the country through frequent international exchanges such as travel, family visits, and business activities, and spread rapidly among non-immune populations. However, it can be effectively prevented through vaccination.

Travelers planning to visit areas affected by measles outbreaks are advised to take note of the following:
1. You may visit the “Travel Medicine Clinics” at 12 contracted international preventive vaccination hospitals in Taiwan to assess your need for a measles vaccination (excluding Lixin Hospital Taoyuan International Airport Medical Center Clinic and Hualien Hospital under the Department of Health).
2. Pay constant attention to personal hygiene — wash hands frequently, avoid touching your mouth and nose, and wear a mask when visiting crowded areas to enhance self-protection.
3. If you or members of your group experience symptoms such as fever, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, or a rash, do not take medication on your own. Wear a mask and seek medical attention promptly. Be sure to inform the doctor of your recent travel history and any relevant contact history.

Other InformationPlease refer to the CDC official website, or call the public epidemic reporting and consultation hotline at 1922. If your phone cannot dial short-code numbers, please call the epidemic prevention hotline at 0800-001922 instead.